[en] The paper concerns the risk of cancer due to exposure to radiation, as assessed by studies of the survivors of the nuclear explosions at Hiroshima and Nagasaki. These studies have been carried out since 1947, and data are presented on the initial analyses of the numbers of leukemias and chromosome aberrations against dose for Nagasaki and Hiroshima. However a more recent analysis, using a new dosimetry system, reveals that a particular dose of radiation carries with it a higher risk of developing cancer than was previously thought. The effect of these new data on the International Commission for Radiological Protection risk factors is discussed. (UK)

[en] The paper concerns the role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) during the Chernobyl accident and its aftermath. The two international conventions drawn up by the IAEA - the Convention on Early Notification and the Convention on Assistance in the Event of a Nuclear Accident, are both described, as well as the response to it of the member countries. A description is given of the Vienna meeting (August 1986) on the Chernobyl accident, organised by the IAEA, as well as its role in formulating international standards for nuclear safety. (UK)

[en] The paper traces the steps in the discovery of a new generation of superconductors with a transition temperature above liquid nitrogen. At present twenty four high temperature superconductors have been found; the materials are known as 'oxygen-defect perovskites'. A description is given of the behaviour of the electrons in a superconductor, and the BSC theory of superconductivity. (U.K.)

[en] The paper concerns the dismantling of the Windscale advanced-gas-cooled reactor, United Kingdom, which has been under way for nearly five years. The dismantling includes dealing with high levels of radioactivity from contaminated and activated materials. The stages of decommissioning are described, along with some of the problems encountered and robotic equipment for dismantling the reactor core. Disposal of the decommissioned radioactive waste from Windscale, and from the Magnox stations due for decommissioning, are also discussed. (U.K.)

[en] Using four spacecraft, orbiting the earth, in the formation of a regular tetrahedron, European scientists will study the auroras around the planet caused by variations in the Sun's magnetic field. These cluster satellites will also study supernovae from their interplanetary position and the plasma of space surrounding us on the Earth. A growing understanding of the plasma dynamics is hoped to assist in the study of nuclear fusion. (UK)

[en] The paper traces the development of quantum physics, from the early past of this century to modern applications including solid-state devices. The early quantum studies on the model of the atom, carried out by Niels Bohr, are described, as well as the work by Heisenberg and colleagues on matrix mechanics. De Broglie wavelength; particles and waves; uncertainty principles; lasers; and semiconductor systems; are all briefly discussed. (U.K.)

[en] Studies of gravity effect our own and other galaxies has revealed that only part of the matter in the Universe (between one and ten percent) is visible. The remainder has become known as ''dark matter''. Several possibilities for the nature of dark matter are explored in this article, including axions and WIMPs (Weakly interacting massive particles). Complex and massive experiments to detect WIMPS are described. Particle physicists at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory designed an experiment to be placed at the bottom of an old salt and potash mine, because of its low levels of radiation. (UK)

[en] Letter to the editor

[en] Letter to the editor

No abstract available